As Emotional Beings, Defining Happiness is More Complex Than We Think

Happiness is an intangible emotion that has been sought after by many throughout history. It is a state of being that transcends material wealth or external circumstances. Yet, despite its universal and timeless appeal, defining and achieving happiness remains elusive for most people.

For starters, emotions are complex and nuanced, varying in intensity and duration. One can experience fleeting moments of happiness, such as when buying a new outfit or spending time with friends, or long-lasting periods of happiness, such as when reaching a major life goal or finding a fulfilling career.

However, as much as happiness is subjective and personal, there are certain ideologies and philosophies that offer insights into achieving happiness. For example, Buddhism and Taoism both emphasize the importance of rejecting material desires and seeking inner peace and simplicity.

The rejection of longing is a common thread in these beliefs, highlighting that you cannot be truly happy when you focus on what you do not have. Instead, one must find contentment in what they already possess and accept what they lack.

However, despite the timeless wisdom of these ideologies, there are still some common myths about happiness that are perpetuated in modern society. Here are some of the most prevalent myths and how we can overcome them:

Myth #1: Happiness is a constant state.

Many people believe that happiness is a constant state of being, and that to be happy, one must always feel happy. However, this is an unrealistic expectation, and it can set people up for disappointment and frustration when they inevitably experience negative emotions.

The truth is, everyone experiences a range of emotions, and it’s okay to feel sad, angry, or stressed sometimes. To be a happier person, it’s important to learn how to manage these negative emotions and not allow them to consume you. Embracing the Taoist approach of appreciating what is and accepting what is not can help you find contentment even in difficult times.

Myth #2: Money can buy happiness.

Another common myth about happiness is that money can buy it. While having financial security and stability can certainly alleviate stress and provide a sense of comfort, it does not necessarily bring happiness.

Material possessions and wealth can provide temporary pleasure, but they do not create lasting fulfillment. Instead, the Buddhist approach of not relying on material objects to bring you happiness is a more effective way to achieve long-term contentment.

Myth #3: Destination: Happiness.

Many people believe that happiness is a destination, something to be achieved once they have a new job, a new home, or a new relationship. However, this mindset can lead to an endless cycle of chasing happiness rather than finding it within yourself.

Happiness is not a tangible destination, but a state of mind that can be cultivated and maintained. Changing your circumstances can certainly help, but it’s equally important to change yourself and how you approach life. By embracing the wisdom of Jon Kabat-Zinn and realizing that “wherever you go, there you are,” you can begin to prioritize your own happiness and find it in the present moment.

Success and happiness don’t need to be enemies.

For some, the pursuit of success is at odds with the pursuit of happiness. However, this is a false binary that neglects the fact that success can be defined as achieving your desired lifestyle and therefore achieving happiness.

While some individuals may equate success with endless work and sacrificing everything for their career, it’s important to find a balance between work and personal interests. By prioritizing the things that bring you joy and incorporating them into your daily routine, you can achieve both success and happiness.

However, pursuing happiness can also be overwhelming, especially when approached too forcefully. Taking things one step at a time and making small lifestyle changes can be the key to finding long-lasting happiness.

One effective way to start prioritizing your happiness is to create a list of everything in your life that doesn’t satisfy you. By identifying these issues and coming up with solutions, you can take the first step towards making real changes in your life.

Additionally, designating “me” time, volunteering, and pursuing personal interests can help you find fulfillment and joy in your daily life. By prioritizing your own happiness, you can create a life that brings you long-term satisfaction and contentment.

In conclusion, defining and achieving happiness is a complex and nuanced process. While there are common myths and misconceptions about happiness, it is ultimately a personal and subjective experience that can be achieved through self-reflection, prioritization, and small lifestyle changes. By rejecting material desires, finding fulfillment in the present moment, and creating a balanced and fulfilling life, you can cultivate a sense of contentment that can transcend external circumstances and create long-lasting happiness.